This Seahawks-Steelers Russell Wilson Trade Could Be Pittsburgh's Answer for Life After Ben Roethlisberger

The Seattle Seahawks reportedly made a wild offer to the Cleveland Browns in 2018 that involved swapping Russell Wilson for the No. 1 overall pick. Whether that buzz was the complete and utter truth remains unknown, but the template for such a move is still out there -- and more than a few teams need to ponder the possibilities.

If the Seahawks ever considering moving Wilson at some point, the Pittsburgh Steelers are one team that should make a major offer. This would finally provide a real succession plan behind Ben Roethlisberger and shift the balance of power in the AFC.

Such a move would have to wait until at least 2021 when Roethlisberger's dead cap value goes down to $22.25 million in the final year of his deal. Wilson is under contract through 2023, and the Seahawks could look to be proactive in restocking the roster if he shows any signs of decline.

A trade this monumental would not come cheap, of course, The Steelers would likely have to give up two first-round picks, two second-rounders, and two late-round picks -- let's say a fifth and a sixth -- to even get the Seahawks listening. That would hurt the Steelers' ability to build for the future, but adding an MVP-caliber Super Bowl champ like Wilson would make the team title contenders once again.

Let's be clear: Barring extreme circumstances, the Hawks trading Wilson would be mistake. However, no player should be considered untouchable if a big enough haul can be had. In this scenario, the Seahawks can try to build another dynasty and the Steelers can avoid a major drop-off in production after Roethlisberger. That's enough to get someone on the phone.